Christmas Toys We Loved - Pt 1 - The '80s

·1 hr 8 min·5 clips

In 1985, the humble skateboard and Transformers became the ultimate Christmas must-haves, fueled by Back to the Future and a robot craze.

The episode begins with festive banter among hosts Keith, Adrian, Dylan, and James, setting a seasonal tone. Keith introduces the topic: classic retro toys from their childhoods, focusing on the 1980s. He explains the episode is split into two parts due to the volume of toys and announces the podcast is returning to a weekly schedule. The hosts start with 1985, highlighting skateboards boosted by Back to the Future and Transformers, which were Toy of the Year. They move to 1986-1987, discussing Rubik's Cube, He-Man figures, and the He-Man movie with Dolph Lundgren. Keith shares a Toys "R" Us catalog from 1987, noting items like the NES bundle and Master System. The conversation shifts to Worlds of Wonder's Laser Tag and Teddy Ruxpin, detailing how the company used these toys to force retailers to stock the NES. Wrestling figures from LJN, based on WWF superstars, are noted as a late-80s phenomenon. Sylvanian Families, a Japanese invention, are highlighted for their enduring popularity. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles figures are discussed, with sales exceeding 1.1 billion units between 1987 and 1991. Ghostbusters toys, tied to The Real Ghostbusters cartoon, are covered, including personal stories about the Proton Pack. The late 80s see Transformers Micromasters and Ring Raiders mentioned. The episode closes with 1989's Batman toys from Toy Biz and the Game Boy's launch, which sold 40,000 units on day one. Other toys like Pogo Ball, Keepers, and Muscle Men are briefly noted, teasing more in part two.

As heard by us

A warm, unruly toy-lane trip where Laser Tag and console bargains spark Christmas debate.

Arcade Attack's seasonal special turns a nostalgic trip down toy lane into a busy, affectionate panel chat about the toys, prices, and hardware that filled late-1980s wish lists.

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Why you'd press play

Press play for a festive Arcade Attack rummage through retro toy memories, Master System bargains, and the problem of playing Laser Tag with one gun.

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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